Eating Disorders Therapists in Renton, WA

Photo of Alisha Genetin, LMHC, Counselor
Alisha Genetin
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98057  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with teens, and young adults struggling with body image and eating disorders. I also work with neurodivergent teens and adults that are navigating life living in a neurotypical world. Together we will work towards greater self acceptance and compassion, as well as creating and maintaining healthy relationships. I will work at a pace that feels safe, and also push you to explore parts of yourself that you may be avoiding.
I specialize in working with teens, and young adults struggling with body image and eating disorders. I also work with neurodivergent teens and adults that are navigating life living in a neurotypical world. Together we will work towards greater self acceptance and compassion, as well as creating and maintaining healthy relationships. I will work at a pace that feels safe, and also push you to explore parts of yourself that you may be avoiding.
(425) 490-5270 View (425) 490-5270
Photo of Jeanne Heather Wicomb, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeanne Heather Wicomb
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98056  (Online Only)
I am specialized in treating eating disorders and have 15 years of experience as the Clinical Director of an Intensive Outpatient Program.
This is a tele-health practice. Everyone deserves a safe space to explore their human experience and to make peace with themselves and their situation. Life will send curve balls. We get out of balance and move through life disconnected and unhappy, consumed by constant worry. We judge ourselves harshly and become filled with self-loathing. We can get stuck or frozen in trying to figure out what to do next. Therapy is a place to clarify your values and move towards a more congruent life. I can help you find your path, accept yourself, and build healthy relationships. You will receive evidence-based tools to build your skill set.
I am specialized in treating eating disorders and have 15 years of experience as the Clinical Director of an Intensive Outpatient Program.
This is a tele-health practice. Everyone deserves a safe space to explore their human experience and to make peace with themselves and their situation. Life will send curve balls. We get out of balance and move through life disconnected and unhappy, consumed by constant worry. We judge ourselves harshly and become filled with self-loathing. We can get stuck or frozen in trying to figure out what to do next. Therapy is a place to clarify your values and move towards a more congruent life. I can help you find your path, accept yourself, and build healthy relationships. You will receive evidence-based tools to build your skill set.
(425) 406-3623 View (425) 406-3623
Photo of Caroline White, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Caroline White
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98057
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with individuals and families, and offer skill building and process oriented sessions. I have specialized training in the treatment of eating disorders, and those struggling with body image/self acceptance. I also specialize in the treatment of anxiety, anger management, ADHD, OCD, depression, trauma, parent/child conflict, mood disorders, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. My hope is for each of my clients to leave our session feeling heard and knowing that their experience and struggle is valid.
I have experience working with individuals and families, and offer skill building and process oriented sessions. I have specialized training in the treatment of eating disorders, and those struggling with body image/self acceptance. I also specialize in the treatment of anxiety, anger management, ADHD, OCD, depression, trauma, parent/child conflict, mood disorders, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. My hope is for each of my clients to leave our session feeling heard and knowing that their experience and struggle is valid.
(206) 408-1408 View (206) 408-1408
Photo of Whitney Lynn Erickson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Whitney Lynn Erickson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98057
Waitlist for new clients
I am specialized in: eating disorders, substance abuse, addiction, codependency, anger, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, autism, sensory processing disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma, parent/child conflict, mood disorders, self-injury, self-harm, suicidal ideation. I have worked in inpatient, residential, or day treatment levels of care for almost 16 years with a variety of populations and have vast knowledge and expertise in being able to provide safety and support for those in need. You can expect to be pushed and challenged and find your way to healing and creating a pathway forward. You can also find me at whitneyericksoncounseling.com
I am specialized in: eating disorders, substance abuse, addiction, codependency, anger, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, autism, sensory processing disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma, parent/child conflict, mood disorders, self-injury, self-harm, suicidal ideation. I have worked in inpatient, residential, or day treatment levels of care for almost 16 years with a variety of populations and have vast knowledge and expertise in being able to provide safety and support for those in need. You can expect to be pushed and challenged and find your way to healing and creating a pathway forward. You can also find me at whitneyericksoncounseling.com
(917) 800-6473 View (917) 800-6473
Photo of Brittany Donahue, LICSW, MHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Donahue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MHP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98056
With a specialization in sex therapy, couples, and eating disorders. I'm dedicated to providing a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential space where my clients can openly discuss their concerns related to sexual health, intimacy, and relationship dynamics. With a deep understanding of the complexities of human sexuality and relationships, I strive to help my clients navigate through their challenges and towards a healthier, more fulfilling life. Whether you’re dealing with sexual dysfunction, desire discrepancy, communication issues, or relationship conflicts, I am here to provide guidance, support, and effective strategies.
With a specialization in sex therapy, couples, and eating disorders. I'm dedicated to providing a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential space where my clients can openly discuss their concerns related to sexual health, intimacy, and relationship dynamics. With a deep understanding of the complexities of human sexuality and relationships, I strive to help my clients navigate through their challenges and towards a healthier, more fulfilling life. Whether you’re dealing with sexual dysfunction, desire discrepancy, communication issues, or relationship conflicts, I am here to provide guidance, support, and effective strategies.
(206) 451-2607 View (206) 451-2607
Photo of Anca M Boudreaux, LMHC, ESA, NCC, CAS, Counselor
Anca M Boudreaux
Counselor, LMHC, ESA, NCC, CAS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98059
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in historical and transgenerational trauma, relationship and family of origin problems, emotion dysregulation, and eating disorders.
Life does not discriminate when it comes to stress, trauma, and pain. We should not bear life's burdens alone, as we all need to be heard, understood, and appreciated. Whether this is your first time seeking counseling or simply looking for a change, know you are doing the right thing for yourself. I love to work with those in need of connection, nurture, and growth. I do so through a style that is direct, yet compassionate, firm, yet empathetic, practical, yet supportive. As your therapist, I work alongside you to provide individualized support based on your presenting problems, needs, and therapeutic goals.
I specialize in historical and transgenerational trauma, relationship and family of origin problems, emotion dysregulation, and eating disorders.
Life does not discriminate when it comes to stress, trauma, and pain. We should not bear life's burdens alone, as we all need to be heard, understood, and appreciated. Whether this is your first time seeking counseling or simply looking for a change, know you are doing the right thing for yourself. I love to work with those in need of connection, nurture, and growth. I do so through a style that is direct, yet compassionate, firm, yet empathetic, practical, yet supportive. As your therapist, I work alongside you to provide individualized support based on your presenting problems, needs, and therapeutic goals.
(206) 578-5714 View (206) 578-5714
Photo of Jenny Usselman, MA, LMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Jenny Usselman
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98059
I am especially passionate about supporting individuals struggling with disordered eating, eating disorders and body image concerns.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate and a Nationally Certified Counselor. I believe growth, healing, and restoration are made possible in safe and supportive relationships, which is why my goal in the therapy room is to always cultivate a space that is warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative. I primarily work from a psychodynamic and narrative therapy framework. This means that in therapy together we will deconstruct the story behind your story, identify and understand reoccurring patterns, and unpack the why’s. We all carry wounded parts and it is my aim to partner with you as you journey toward healing.
I am especially passionate about supporting individuals struggling with disordered eating, eating disorders and body image concerns.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate and a Nationally Certified Counselor. I believe growth, healing, and restoration are made possible in safe and supportive relationships, which is why my goal in the therapy room is to always cultivate a space that is warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative. I primarily work from a psychodynamic and narrative therapy framework. This means that in therapy together we will deconstruct the story behind your story, identify and understand reoccurring patterns, and unpack the why’s. We all carry wounded parts and it is my aim to partner with you as you journey toward healing.
(425) 970-9496 View (425) 970-9496
Photo of Nick Brown, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Nick Brown
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98055
I provide a supportive environment where you can begin to move towards healing. Together we create a space where your story is heard, respected, and valued. Therapy can help you find new tools, skills, and knowledge to deal with difficult circumstances in life. We will find ways to identify, understand, and work through these challenges in a supportive setting. My specialties are working with individuals who struggle with eating disorders, trauma and PTSD. As your counselor, I will work with you as we identify the various areas of need and how to attain healing and fulfillment in your life.
I provide a supportive environment where you can begin to move towards healing. Together we create a space where your story is heard, respected, and valued. Therapy can help you find new tools, skills, and knowledge to deal with difficult circumstances in life. We will find ways to identify, understand, and work through these challenges in a supportive setting. My specialties are working with individuals who struggle with eating disorders, trauma and PTSD. As your counselor, I will work with you as we identify the various areas of need and how to attain healing and fulfillment in your life.
(425) 230-5907 View (425) 230-5907
Photo of Rosalie Salazar, MS, LPC, LMHC, Counselor
Rosalie Salazar
Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98055
This has given me the experience and ability to treat various mental health issues, including trauma, addiction, eating disorders, etc.
You may be noticing that you are struggling with the stress and anxiety that life brings. You also may see changes in your mood, motivation, and self-worth because of it. Naturally, that may spill over into your work, personal relationships, and family relationships. You may also resort to unhealthy behaviors like substances, food, video games, etc. just to feel better, or not feel at all, only for a short while. You are not alone in how you are feeling, and there is also room for you to grow and heal to be your best and healthy self. You deserve better, and I can help you get to a place where you start to give yourself better.
This has given me the experience and ability to treat various mental health issues, including trauma, addiction, eating disorders, etc.
You may be noticing that you are struggling with the stress and anxiety that life brings. You also may see changes in your mood, motivation, and self-worth because of it. Naturally, that may spill over into your work, personal relationships, and family relationships. You may also resort to unhealthy behaviors like substances, food, video games, etc. just to feel better, or not feel at all, only for a short while. You are not alone in how you are feeling, and there is also room for you to grow and heal to be your best and healthy self. You deserve better, and I can help you get to a place where you start to give yourself better.
(206) 875-2898 View (206) 875-2898
Photo of Chris Tatsumi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris Tatsumi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98057  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with people who suffer with anxiety, depression, eating disorders and substance abuse issues.
Hello! I enjoy working with people of all ages. From teens/young adults struggling with relationships and school to adults managing the struggle of day to day life. I use a client-centered approach and believe each person is unique. I do not believe one size fits all in therapy. Whether you need support in healing from past trauma, dealing with relationships or work stress, or you simply feel stuck in life, I am here to help you heal and reach your life goals.
I have extensive experience working with people who suffer with anxiety, depression, eating disorders and substance abuse issues.
Hello! I enjoy working with people of all ages. From teens/young adults struggling with relationships and school to adults managing the struggle of day to day life. I use a client-centered approach and believe each person is unique. I do not believe one size fits all in therapy. Whether you need support in healing from past trauma, dealing with relationships or work stress, or you simply feel stuck in life, I am here to help you heal and reach your life goals.
(602) 878-6734 View (602) 878-6734
Photo of Genevieve Ward, NCC, LMHC
Genevieve Ward
Mental Health Counselor, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98057
Not accepting new clients
I believe therapy should be a safe and non-judgmental space with a healthy mix of feeling your feelings, accountability, education and humor. My approach is to serve as a partner and guide on your journey to explore and sort the helpful vs. unhelpful in your life. Sometimes this journey will be tearful and uncomfortable, and sometimes we will laugh together at my many metaphors. I am most passionate about working with individuals who feel like they are “not good enough,” worry about living up to others’ expectations or struggle sometimes to get out of bed because their sadness is overwhelming.
I believe therapy should be a safe and non-judgmental space with a healthy mix of feeling your feelings, accountability, education and humor. My approach is to serve as a partner and guide on your journey to explore and sort the helpful vs. unhelpful in your life. Sometimes this journey will be tearful and uncomfortable, and sometimes we will laugh together at my many metaphors. I am most passionate about working with individuals who feel like they are “not good enough,” worry about living up to others’ expectations or struggle sometimes to get out of bed because their sadness is overwhelming.
(425) 295-2318 View (425) 295-2318
Photo of Lauren McKee, MS, LMHC, CN, RYT, Counselor
Lauren McKee
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CN, RYT
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98057
Do you struggle with an inner voice that tells you that you are failing or not enough? Is it difficult to identify what you want? Do you consistently prioritize others over yourself? We live in a world that bombards us with messages about who has value and who does not. We are told “just try harder” and things will change. My clients come to therapy because despite a commitment to this hustle for worth, they remain dissatisfied. They feel stuck and resonate with the idea of putting their life on hold until they lose the weight, get the promotion, etc. Many say they are ready for something different but aren't sure where to start.
Do you struggle with an inner voice that tells you that you are failing or not enough? Is it difficult to identify what you want? Do you consistently prioritize others over yourself? We live in a world that bombards us with messages about who has value and who does not. We are told “just try harder” and things will change. My clients come to therapy because despite a commitment to this hustle for worth, they remain dissatisfied. They feel stuck and resonate with the idea of putting their life on hold until they lose the weight, get the promotion, etc. Many say they are ready for something different but aren't sure where to start.
(253) 525-2925 View (253) 525-2925
Photo of Fern DeMello, MS, LMHC, CN, Counselor
Fern DeMello
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CN
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98057  (Online Only)
What do you fear? What do you long for? I have found that the answers to these questions often overlap, which can make us feel stuck, lost or out of control. You may feel like you've tried everything. You may be telling yourself that you are wrong or defective. Blaming ourselves for our pain is so normal and human. Know that here, you are not too broken. I view therapy as a no-expiration invitation to return to ourselves and a space where we reach for what has felt untouchable. I believe we can only work to the extent that you feel you can trust me. Because of this, we will give focused time to our relationship dynamic.
What do you fear? What do you long for? I have found that the answers to these questions often overlap, which can make us feel stuck, lost or out of control. You may feel like you've tried everything. You may be telling yourself that you are wrong or defective. Blaming ourselves for our pain is so normal and human. Know that here, you are not too broken. I view therapy as a no-expiration invitation to return to ourselves and a space where we reach for what has felt untouchable. I believe we can only work to the extent that you feel you can trust me. Because of this, we will give focused time to our relationship dynamic.
(253) 559-0086 View (253) 559-0086
Photo of Amy Elizabeth Bloom - Amy Bloom LICSW, LICSW, CSAT, CMAT, CCBRT-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Bloom LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CSAT, CMAT, CCBRT-C
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98059
I have been treating clients and couples for two decades. I specialized in bi-polar and other mood disorders before becoming a certified multiple addictions, sex addiction therapist and couple's counselor. I was certified by the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals with Patrick Carnes in 2008. I treat those who suffer from mood, sexual addiction/compulsion issues, I treat spouses/partners who have betrayal trauma and help couples find their way back to each other. I am able to offer insight, compassion, levity and support. I do not treat sex offenders. I am not certified in sex offender treatment
I have been treating clients and couples for two decades. I specialized in bi-polar and other mood disorders before becoming a certified multiple addictions, sex addiction therapist and couple's counselor. I was certified by the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals with Patrick Carnes in 2008. I treat those who suffer from mood, sexual addiction/compulsion issues, I treat spouses/partners who have betrayal trauma and help couples find their way back to each other. I am able to offer insight, compassion, levity and support. I do not treat sex offenders. I am not certified in sex offender treatment
(425) 600-1339 View (425) 600-1339
Photo of Danny Kochanowski, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danny Kochanowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98055
You've come into adulthood as a queer and/or trans person, and you’re realizing that everything is harder than you envisioned. Some of what happened in your past is coming back to affect you or maybe it has for quite some time. You’re learning more and more that many places in the world haven’t been designed for you, or that the spaces you find yourself in don’t account for the real you. You don’t feel very good about yourself, and what you've tried so far hasn't made the impact that you've wanted it to. You’re stuck, anxious, overwhelmed, lonely, or scared...or all of the above.
You've come into adulthood as a queer and/or trans person, and you’re realizing that everything is harder than you envisioned. Some of what happened in your past is coming back to affect you or maybe it has for quite some time. You’re learning more and more that many places in the world haven’t been designed for you, or that the spaces you find yourself in don’t account for the real you. You don’t feel very good about yourself, and what you've tried so far hasn't made the impact that you've wanted it to. You’re stuck, anxious, overwhelmed, lonely, or scared...or all of the above.
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Photo of Grace Whorley, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Grace Whorley
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98055  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
It’s easy to get stuck in a cycle of highs and lows. This cycle can result in feelings of overwhelm and avoidance, making it seem easier to reach for coping strategies that are not sustainable. This could be taking it out on the ones we live the most or neglecting ourselves. Sometimes, we need someone to provide a listening ear, reflection, and honest feedback to allow us to make necessary changes in our lives and relationships.
It’s easy to get stuck in a cycle of highs and lows. This cycle can result in feelings of overwhelm and avoidance, making it seem easier to reach for coping strategies that are not sustainable. This could be taking it out on the ones we live the most or neglecting ourselves. Sometimes, we need someone to provide a listening ear, reflection, and honest feedback to allow us to make necessary changes in our lives and relationships.
(425) 517-0601 View (425) 517-0601
Photo of Camille Primous, MS, LMHC, CN, Counselor
Camille Primous
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98055
Throughout our lives, there are a number of experiences that lead us to feeling alienated and disconnected from our bodies, our relationships to others, and our sense of worth. I hope to support you in returning home to yourself in all of your complexities. I believe in leaning into discomfort in an effort to uncover the wisdom behind strategies used to cope. It is through this learning that you can gain the tools to shift in ways that bring you to a place of greater abundance, connection, and radical self-love.
Throughout our lives, there are a number of experiences that lead us to feeling alienated and disconnected from our bodies, our relationships to others, and our sense of worth. I hope to support you in returning home to yourself in all of your complexities. I believe in leaning into discomfort in an effort to uncover the wisdom behind strategies used to cope. It is through this learning that you can gain the tools to shift in ways that bring you to a place of greater abundance, connection, and radical self-love.
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Photo of Ana Ruediger, LMHCA, MACP, ND, Counselor
Ana Ruediger
Counselor, LMHCA, MACP, ND
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98055  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
The way we experience life in and outside of our bodies is profoundly informative. I operate from the view that individuals have an innate wisdom and collection of strengths that guide their ability to heal and grow. Trauma and dislocation from the genuine self- whether experienced individually or systemically- influences how we live, how we love, and how we interpret the world. Painful experience can also connect us with our humanity and be deeply transformative. It can be the source of our healing, growth and resilience.
The way we experience life in and outside of our bodies is profoundly informative. I operate from the view that individuals have an innate wisdom and collection of strengths that guide their ability to heal and grow. Trauma and dislocation from the genuine self- whether experienced individually or systemically- influences how we live, how we love, and how we interpret the world. Painful experience can also connect us with our humanity and be deeply transformative. It can be the source of our healing, growth and resilience.
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Photo of Rae Ann Hahn, LMHC, Counselor
Rae Ann Hahn
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98055
Rae Ann Hahn, LMHC graduated from Argosy University in Seattle in 2015 with a Masters in Clinical Psychology. She interned with Greater Lakes Mental Healthcare; working with many different individuals and diagnoses. While working at Greater Lakes, she was able to become trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) (EMDR) therapy. She has been practicing EMDR for 6 years. Rae Ann has also worked with addiction, ADHD, personality disorders and more. She focuses on trauma, depression and anxiety presently. Rae Ann believes that all patients should have a voice in their therapy.
Rae Ann Hahn, LMHC graduated from Argosy University in Seattle in 2015 with a Masters in Clinical Psychology. She interned with Greater Lakes Mental Healthcare; working with many different individuals and diagnoses. While working at Greater Lakes, she was able to become trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) (EMDR) therapy. She has been practicing EMDR for 6 years. Rae Ann has also worked with addiction, ADHD, personality disorders and more. She focuses on trauma, depression and anxiety presently. Rae Ann believes that all patients should have a voice in their therapy.
(206) 210-2251 View (206) 210-2251
Photo of Tony Reyna, MA, CCHt, MHyp
Tony Reyna
MA, CCHt, MHyp
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98058  (Online Only)
As a hypnotherapist, I believe each client is unique, and their issues and goals are specific to their circumstances. However, ideal clients seeking hypnotherapy may have various issues, such as anxiety, depression, phobias, addiction, insomnia, or chronic pain. You may need to overcome limiting beliefs, improve self-esteem, or manage stress. Your goals may include achieving better health, increasing confidence, enhancing performance, or attaining inner peace. Ultimately, You want to improve your quality of life and find solutions to your challenges.
As a hypnotherapist, I believe each client is unique, and their issues and goals are specific to their circumstances. However, ideal clients seeking hypnotherapy may have various issues, such as anxiety, depression, phobias, addiction, insomnia, or chronic pain. You may need to overcome limiting beliefs, improve self-esteem, or manage stress. Your goals may include achieving better health, increasing confidence, enhancing performance, or attaining inner peace. Ultimately, You want to improve your quality of life and find solutions to your challenges.
(206) 984-6313 View (206) 984-6313
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Eating Disorders Therapists

What happens in therapy for eating disorders?

In therapy for eating disorders, patients typically describe their eating and exercise behaviors, their patterns of eating in relation to stress, their beliefs about their body, the ways their eating behavior affects their relationships, and their desire (or lack of it) to change. Such information helps the therapist understand the origins of the disorder and the role it plays in the patient’s life, important for guiding treatment. Attitudes and feelings about food and eating, body weight, and physical appearance are common topics of discussion throughout treatment.

What therapy types help with eating disorders?

Once any acute medical or psychiatric emergency is resolved, psychoactive medication is often prescribed, requiring the supervision of a psychiatrist. In addition, patients receive some form of nutritional counseling along with one or more forms of psychotherapy. For adolescents, family-based treatment is empirically validated and considered the first line of treatment; parents and their children meet weekly with a clinician as the adults are coached on how to nourish and psychologically support the young patient. Adults typically receive some form of individual psychotherapy, intended to resolve the cognitive and behavioral disturbances that underlie the disorder and to relieve the mood disturbances that accompany it. In addition, patients may also be helped by group therapy.

What is the goal of therapy for eating disorders?

The most immediate goal of treatment for eating disorders is to save the life of people who are on a path of starving themselves to death or engaging in eating patterns that are doing irreparable physical harm to their body. Once the acute medical danger is past, therapy is required to understand the nature of the disordered eating and/or exercise patterns, establish healthy eating behavior, and to tackle the many erroneous beliefs and distorted self-perceptions that underlie eating disorders and continue to pose a threat to health and life. Therapy also addresses the impaired mood that not only accompanies eating disorders but intensifies the danger to health and life.

What are the limitations of therapy for eating disorders?

Therapy can be very helpful for eating disorders—but that can happen only after people recognize they have a condition that must be treated. Especially with anorexia, the distortions in self-image that accompany the disorder can keep people from acknowledging they have a problem. Individuals may in fact see their eating disorder as a badge of self-control. Those with binge-eating disorder may feel too ashamed to seek help. Therapy cannot help those who do not avail themselves of it.

How long does therapy last for eating disorders?

Because of their complexity, recovery from eating disorders is usually a long-term process—measured in months and years— often marked by setbacks and relapse. Some form of help, such as individual or group therapy, may be advisable for much of that time. It is a general rule of thumb that the longer the illness has endured and the dysregulated eating behavior has taken root, the longer treatment is likely to be needed.